Tensions flared in Gazipur as worker protests escalated into a three-way clash, leading to the indefinite closure of Doreen Fashion Limited in the Panishail area and a fire at Amazon Knitwear Garments in Jirani Bazar.
The unrest began after workers of Doreen Fashion Limited discovered an indefinite closure notice on Monday morning.
This followed a partial holiday announcement on Sunday, amid protests at the nearby Beximco factory.
In response, Doreen workers blocked the Chandra-Nabinagar road in Jirani, demanding the reopening of their factory.
Simultaneously, Beximco workers also staged a road blockade at the same location.
The situation spiralled into violence when workers clashed with locals, leading to several injuries.
At around 11:30am, agitated workers allegedly set fire to Amazon Knitwear Garments in Savar's Ashulia area near Jirani Bazar.
Local residents reported that workers entered the Panishail and Kaltasuti areas and assaulted residents, prompting retaliation.
The confrontation escalated into a series of chases and counter-chases.
The authorities announced holidays in 20 nearby factories to prevent further unrest.
Speaking about the incident, Superintendent of Police (SP) Mohammad Sarwar Alam of Gazipur Industrial Police-2 said: "Beximco workers are demanding unpaid wages and are unwilling to leave the road until the issue is resolved. For safety, operations at nearby factories have been suspended."
Fire service personnel struggled to control the blaze at Amazon Knitwear.
Ariful Islam, in-charge of the Kashimpur Fire Service, said: "The fire started at 11:40am, reportedly caused by enraged workers. Two units from the DPZ Fire Service are at the scene, but the fire is yet to be fully controlled."
The unrest in the Panishail area began after Doreen Fashion Limited announced its indefinite closure starting November 1.
Worker protests and road blockades have since disrupted operations in the area, affecting businesses and public safety.
Authorities are working to resolve the situation and prevent further escalation.
